In a time where digital devices influence our daily lives, it is normal for households to have multiple smart home devices. Statistics show that each person owns at least three devices, with North Americans owning an average of nine. It is critical to understand that having a large number of devices and users on a single network could present serious issues. If a single device becomes infected, the entire network can be compromised. Certain measures must be taken to limit the implications and reduce the likelihood of cyberattacks.
Here are three essential cybersecurity tips for securing smart home devices and safeguarding your network.
Update software: It's critical for security that you keep the firmware and software on your smart devices updated. Updates are released by manufacturers to address vulnerabilities, fix issues, and occasionally add new features. If you don't update your devices, hackers may be able to take advantage of known vulnerabilities on them.
Automatic update features are available on many devices; if they are, you should activate them. Without the need for human interaction, automatic updates make sure that your devices get the most recent security fixes as soon as they are made available. Updates can also improve your devices' general operation and performance, making them more dependable, efficient, and safe.
Change default password: Devices from manufacturers typically come with default credentials that are public knowledge and easy to get hold of. Because these default passwords—like "admin" or "password123"—are often weak and predictable, brute-force assaults target them frequently. Thus, the first step is to make sure you secure the security of your smart gadgets and change them.
A password manager may be useful for generating and storing complex passwords, making sure that each device has a unique password. Furthermore, ensure that you periodically update your passwords and avoid reusing old ones.
Monitor devices: Regular monitoring of your connected smart devices is critical for detecting any strange or unauthorised behaviour early. Use network monitoring software to keep track of any devices that are linked to your home network. Applications such as Fing or built-in router tools can give you insight into your network.
Make sure you set up alerts for new device connections and suspicious activity. Many modern routers include this feature, which notifies you of any new devices joining your network. This allows you to quickly discover and address any unwanted connections.
